Kilkenny TD welcomes funding to support Ukrainian arrivals
Minister for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan has welcomed almost €1 million in targeted community supports over the next two years for Kilkenny.
The funding announcement, which was made earlier this week will see communities across the country who have welcomed and are hosting Ukrainian families will receive a total of €50 million under the Community Recognition Fund.
With €948,063 going to Kilkenny to support sports clubs, community organisations, schools, transport infrastructure and local amenities and events, Malcolm Noonan, TD for Carlow Kilkenny, has welcomed this important new funding stream for Kilkenny.
“I am delighted to see communities across Ireland get recognition and support for the crucial work they have done. The people of Kilkenny have opened their homes and their communities to the Ukrainian people in their time of need, and it is fantastic that this generosity is being supported by government in a very targeted way,” he said.
The Green Party’s Councillor for Kilkenny City, Maria Dollard, said:
“This funding will be a major aid to local organisations, from sports clubs to community groups, and from schools to transport, it will bring real, tangible improvements to the facilities and local amenities we all use and enjoy. The projects that will be supported will ultimately benefit all members of our communities, who can develop projects that identify and address local needs.”
The fund will support a range of projects such as: the refurbishment of local sports clubs and facilities; the upgrade of community facilities such as play areas, walkways, parks and community gardens; the purchase of equipment to benefit local clubs, festivals, music and arts organisations, the enhancement of school or parish facilities that are open to the wider community after hours or on weekends and transport infrastructure such as community vehicles and bus shelters
Speaking at the announcement, Minister Joe O’Brien said;
“The announcement will support local communities to create local solutions and ensure people on the ground get the necessary support. These communities are playing a vital role and this funding will develop facilities that will benefit them for many years to come.”